For Immediate Release

	June 24, 2003 NATIONAL BAR ASSOCIATION COMMENDS SUPREME COURT'S SUPPORT OF EDUCATIONAL DIVERSITY WASHINGTON - The National Bar Association (NBA) today commended the U.S. Supreme Court in its decision to uphold the affirmative action polices of the University of Michigan's Law School. "The Supreme Court has made it clear that investing in educational diversity is a priority for our nation," said Malcolm S. Robinson, President of NBA. "This decision gives students applying to Michigan's law school access to greater opportunities across the board." said Robinson. "It allows all students the chance to reap the benefits of a more diverse student body, which will inevitably lead to a more worthwhile education." "The fact that the Supreme Court saw the need to uphold the 1978 Bakke decision should send a message to the American people that there is still quite a ways to go in truly bringing about diversity and equality in this nation. It is however, unfortunate that not all of our nation's leaders can so clearly see this need," said Robinson. "While the court did not approve of the use of a point system in the University's undergraduate admissions policies, the need to consider race as an admission factor was plainly upheld," said Robinson, "This is a step in the right direction for all of us; for all Americans, but more importantly for the students who will become the future of our nation. " The National Bar Association, established in 1925, is the oldest and largest association of attorneys of color, with more than 20,000 members worldwide. CONTACT: Megan Alexa Carpenter @ 202-842-3900 Email: mcarpenter@nationalbar.org